KUALA LUMPUR – Prime Minister Tan Sri Muhyiddin Yassin has called on Malaysians to turn the community’s racial and religious diversity into a strength to further build the country, in spirit of Christmas tomorrow amid the new normal.
He said all Malaysians should be grateful because each festival of the country’s multiracial, multireligious community can be celebrated in a peaceful and harmonious atmosphere.
“I would like to wish a merry Christmas to all Christians celebrating this auspicious day.
“Christmas gives us the opportunity as a plural society to observe the occasion’s customs and traditions, not only with family members, but also friends and others from all walks of life,” he said in his Christmas message today.
Muhyiddin said the harmonious relationship between the Christian and Muslim communities can be seen in the history of Andalusia, as such a situation at the time spurred progress in various fields.
With the ongoing Covid-19 pandemic, the prime minister said this year’s Christmas celebration may not be as merry as previous years as house-to-house visits from family and friends are limited and open houses are advised to be held in moderation.
“My advice is, for the common good, to celebrate this occasion moderately by complying with the standard operating procedures and guidelines set, such as taking your visitors’ body temperature, ensuring physical distancing, and avoiding handshakes.
“Suffice to bow your head slightly and place your hand on your chest as a mark of respect. Practise the new norms by washing your hands frequently and wearing a face mask correctly,” he said.
Muhyiddin said that starting December 7, the government has allowed inter-state and inter-district travel across the country, except to and from areas placed under the enhanced movement control order.
Meanwhile, the prime minister also advised families receiving guests to sanitise their homes to protect their elderly and unwell as they are at higher risk of contracting Covid-19.
He also said that everyone needs to take precautions to ensure the safety of those around them.
“Those with symptoms such as a fever or a cold; please stay at home. I pray that the frontliners, members of the security forces on duty at the country’s borders, and Malaysians abroad can celebrate this occasion with joy.
“Merry Christmas to all celebrants,” said Muhyiddin. – Bernama, December 24, 2020
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